How to Get Scholarship Abroad By: Mr. Heng Socheat

Winning a scholarship is not a coincidence, but it is truly from one’s discipline, commitment and efforts. I am Socheat Heng, a former UC student majoring in English Language and Literature. I graduat-ed in 2013. Currently, I am an ofﬁcial at the Ministry of Economy and Finance, and a Chevening scholar 2015/2016. In this connection, I would like to share three important stages for winning this prestigious scholarship ranging from the pre-application, to dur-ing the application, and post application processes.

First, in the pre-application process, prepare yourself for applying for the scholarship that may include your academic performance and IELTS test results. You should earn strong academic records, and your GPA should illustrate this. Getting a GPA of at least 3.5 is very important when you apply for a foreign-university. At the same time, challenge your-self to an IELTS test. IELTS acts as your scholarship passport, which enables you to apply for any scholarship you wish. To apply for Chevening Scholar-ships, you should have an overall IELTS score of at least 6.5.

Second, take your time and thoroughly complete the application forms at the beginning of the application period. At this important stage, two main criteria should be focused on; ﬁrst and foremost, you must make sure that your personal statement stands out. Shape your answer in order to uniquely respond to the question; make your answer clear and achievable. Second, have great references. Try to get letters of recommendation from people who know you and your academic or professional performance well, and are able to comment on your capacity, personality and attitude.

After submitting the application, prepare yourself to wait for the shortlisted result. If you are called for an interview, you are about to reach the ﬁnal stage of selection process. In this case, you should review your personal statement, talk to your seniors, and be prepared to build your conﬁdence for the interview. The objective of this interview is to test your academic/professional capacity, English proﬁciency and your personal statement (whether you are the one who wrote it). If you can make it, you will be one of the scholarship winners.

Finally, it is you yourself who can create this opportunity. If you really commit to win a scholar-ship abroad, be prepared and get ready for yourself from now on.